Gentle handling for fragile components
Step Feeder
Step-type feeding machines designed for gentle handling of fragile or complex-shaped components. Step-by-step mechanical feeding eliminates part damage from vibratory action.
Category
Step Feeder
Available Systems
Product Configurations
Linear Step Feeder
Part Type
Tubes, vials, cylindrical parts
Consistent orientation, low noise
Rotary Step Feeder
Part Type
Caps, closures, round components
Compact footprint, continuous output
Sanitary Step Feeder
Part Type
Pharma/food grade applications
FDA-compliant, easy cleandown
Multi-Lane Step Feeder
Part Type
High-throughput packaging lines
Parallel lanes, synchronized output
Engineering Capabilities
Technical Expertise
Gentle Part Handling
Mechanical stepping action prevents scratching, chipping, and cosmetic damage that vibratory systems may cause on delicate surfaces.
Hygienic Design Options
Stainless steel construction, tool-free disassembly, and wash-down rated enclosures for pharmaceutical and food applications.
Variable Speed Control
Adjustable step rate matches downstream equipment requirements with smooth acceleration and deceleration profiles.
Applications
Typical Use Cases
Our step feeder systems are deployed across diverse manufacturing operations requiring reliable, automated part feeding.
- Glass vial feeding to filling machines
- Syringe barrel orientation
- Cosmetic tube handling
- Pharmaceutical bottle feeding
- Pre-filled syringe assembly
- Lipstick and mascara component feeding
Application
Industrial Manufacturing
Technical Data
Specification Range
| Parameter | Range |
|---|---|
| Step Width | 50mm – 300mm |
| Feed Rate | 5 – 200 ppm |
| Part Size | 5mm – 100mm |
| Power Supply | 220V, 50/60Hz |
| Material Options | Aluminum, Stainless Steel (304/316) |
| Noise Level | < 65dB |
Specifications vary by model and configuration. Contact engineering for application-specific requirements.
Technical FAQ
Engineering Questions
01What makes step feeders better for fragile parts?
The mechanical stepping motion lifts and places parts rather than vibrating them, eliminating surface contact abrasion and impact damage common in vibratory systems.
02Can step feeders achieve high throughput?
Multi-lane configurations achieve 200+ ppm. For higher rates, parallel step feeders or hybrid systems combining step elevation with vibratory output tracks are available.
03What cleaning protocols are supported?
Sanitary models support CIP (clean-in-place), tool-free disassembly for manual cleaning, and are designed to FDA 21 CFR Part 11 documentation requirements.
04How is part orientation controlled?
Mechanical guides and rails orient parts during the stepping process. Vision-guided rejection stations can remove mis-oriented parts before output.
05What is the noise level compared to bowl feeders?
Step feeders operate at <65dB, significantly quieter than standard bowl feeders. This makes them suitable for cleanroom and laboratory environments.
06Can the system handle varying part lengths?
Adjustable guides accommodate part length variations. Quick-change guide sets enable rapid changeover between product sizes.
Request a Custom Quotation
Provide your part details and production requirements. Our engineering team will respond with a tailored solution proposal within 48 hours.